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Drilling Rig Hand Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Mechanic

Upland, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Mechanic

Upland, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Mechanic

Richmond, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

... g., drill rig, excavators, etc...) are properly maintained, providing and documenting personnel training, managing personnel issues and working with the management team to hand down disciplinary ...

... drilling, tapping, cutting, deburring, touch-up finishing). * Safely rig, lift, and position heavy ... Proficiency with common hand and power tools. * Basic computer proficiency, including ERP systems ...

Machine Production Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

... drilling, tapping, cutting, deburring, touch-up finishing). * Safely rig, lift, and position heavy ... Proficiency with common hand and power tools. * Basic computer proficiency, including ERP systems ...

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Employees are encouraged to provide their own basic hand tools. Specialty tools are provided by the ...

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Employees are encouraged to provide their own basic hand tools. Specialty tools are provided by the ...

Ability to use such hand tools as torque / manual wrenches, screwdrivers, sledgehammers ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...

Maintenance Mechanic

CA · On-site

$81K - $147K/yr

Ability to use such hand tools as torque / manual wrenches, screwdrivers, sledgehammers ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drilling Rig Hand information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in California is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for working efficiently and safely on-site. These abilities are vital to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the successful completion of drilling projects in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Drilling Rig Hands, and how can they be managed on the job?

Drilling Rig Hands often encounter physically demanding tasks, exposure to harsh weather, and long shifts that can extend beyond typical working hours. Maintaining safety is a top priority, as the work involves heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, since Rig Hands coordinate closely with other crew members to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Adapting to changing conditions and staying attentive to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and contribute to a successful rig environment.

What are Drilling Rig Hands?

Drilling Rig Hands, often referred to as roughnecks, are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs. They are responsible for a variety of manual labor tasks such as handling drilling equipment, maintaining the rig, and assisting more experienced crew members with drilling operations. Rig Hands work in physically demanding environments and often follow strict safety protocols. Their work is essential to the smooth and efficient operation of drilling rigs. Over time, Rig Hands can advance to higher positions with experience and training.

What is the difference between Drilling Rig Hand vs Derrickhand?

AspectDrilling Rig HandDerrickhand
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, basic certificationsSimilar certifications, more specialized safety training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoors, physically demandingOn drilling rigs, working in the derrick, physically demanding
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment, maintenance, safety proceduresHandling drilling fluid, maintaining the derrick, assisting in drilling operations

The main difference between a Drilling Rig Hand and a Derrickhand lies in their specific roles on the rig. While both work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, Derrickhands focus more on managing drilling fluids and working in the derrick, whereas Drilling Rig Hands assist with general equipment and safety tasks. Both positions are essential for efficient drilling operations and often overlap in skills and training.

What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California are:
Mechanic

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Come join an amazing team of close to 900 employees dedicated to providing Excellence on Every Level!

Perform all maintenance and repair functions on all equipment per company policy and DOT regulations. The Mechanic must have the ability to perform general maintenance, repairs and troubleshooting on various types of trucks and equipment. General understanding of diesel engines, gas powered engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and pumps. Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to multi-task and prioritize, as well as organizational skills are required as there are a variety of requests made on a daily basis of this person. In addition, a positive attitude, along with a willingness to help other employees, is required. The ability to work in a team environment without supervision is necessary for success.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Review all repair request forms, make suggestions, obtain pricing, and discuss options with the Shop Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair
  • Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks, trailers and other equipment
  • Complete paperwork for all repairs and maintenance and maintain records
  • Perform 90 day and annual inspections on all drill rigs, trucks, trailers and other equipment. Complete the inspections in accordance with DOT regulations
  • Inspect and diagnose physical conditions of equipment on a regular basis to ensure safety standards are met
  • Manages and directs field testing for all completed work requests, communicating end results to initial requestor and Shop Supervisor or Operations Manager
  • Maintain proper notification and documentation of all vehicles down time, fixes and resolutions-maintaining files appropriately
  • Requisition of materials, parts, and supplies
  • Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition
  • Document exceptions and forward to the Administrative Assistant to enter in the computer
  • Use diagnostic equipment
  • Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Performs all duties in compliance safety practices, policies, procedures and government regulations
  • Complete other duties and projects as assigned
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • At least three years of mechanical experience
  • Ability to lift up to 60 pounds throughout the day
  • Proof of mechanical training, classes, and certification
  • Knowledge of DOT regulations
  • Work overtime and various shifts
  • Knowledge of power/hand tools and diagnostic equipment
  • Read and understand manufacture repair manuals
  • Computer competency
Cascade Environmental, LLC, and our subsidiaries is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state or federal law. This policy applies with regard to all aspects of one's employment, including hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation, eligibility for benefits, and termination. EEO is the Law.
Cascade is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (425) 527-9700.
Who is Cascade?
From our roots as a Northwest regional drilling company, we have grown into a national, full-service environmental services company offering innovative solutions to our customers. We believe in excellence at every level and that includes hiring employees who are the best at what they do. We firmly believe our employees are the most critical component of our long-term success. At Cascade, we provide a career, not just a job.
Cascade's core purpose is to be the essential business partner that contributes to our clients' success and advancement in tackling even the most challenging environmental and geotechnical problems, to contribute to our industry and the betterment of our employee's careers and the communities we serve.
What does Cascade offer?
  • Comprehensive training and flexible career paths
  • Encouragement to pursue new roles nationwide, explore a variety of projects, and work with mentors and experts who help shape the industry
  • Comprehensive Medical/Prescription Drug/Dental/Vision
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
  • Company-paid Basic Life Insurance / Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Health Reimbursement Account and Flexible Spending Account
  • Sick Leave / Holiday / Vacation Pay
  • License Bonuses / Tuition Reimbursement
  • Charitable Donation Match
  • $25 - $35 per hour
We are proud to provide a full range of benefits programs that help our employees and their families plan for today and their future. The benefits we offer are competitive and allow flexibility and choice to meet the individual needs of our employees and their families.
Who are you?
  • Hard-working, talented, and career-minded
  • Challenge-seeking
  • Strong desire to contribute to a stable, diverse organization
  • Work hard, play hard mindset
  • Open to continued learning and development
  • Collaborative, team player
  • Customer service minded
Interested in learning more about Cascade and how we provide Excellence on Every Level? Click here to learn morehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwzxUvjbHC0.
To learn more about our exciting career opportunities at Cascade, check out our Careers site at http://www.cascade-env.com/careers
Employment Type: Full-Time (Hourly)